Cultivation
Grow under glass in cactus compost, in bright, filtered light. Water moderately when in growth and feed every two or three weeks with a balanced liquid feed. Can be moved outdoors in summer. Keep almost dry in the winter. In frost-free areas, grow in moderately fertile, sharply drained, preferably slightly acid soil in full sun. Tolerates drought and dry soil. Plants sourced from high, cold deserts are hardier than species sourced from warmer, lower elevations. Where native, grows at elevations from 1,200-2,800m (3,900-9,200').
Suggested uses
Containers/Patio, Architectural, Flower Arranging, Mediterranean, Sub-Tropical, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Indoor, Conservatory, Coastal, Rock, Gravel
UK hardiness
H2
USDA zones
Zone 9, Zone 10, Zone 11
Sunset zone
H2, H1, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
WUCOLS
North-Central Coastal = Unknown
Central Valley = Unknown
South Coastal = Unknown
South Inland = Unknown
High and Intermediate Desert = Unknown
Low Desert = Unknown
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Multi-stemmed palm, cycad or tree
Native to
Southwestern United States, Mexico
Drought tolerant
Yes
Flood tolerant
No
Toxicity
Though not toxic, this plant is armed with sharp spines. It is advised to wear safety glasses, long sleeves, long pants, gloves, and closed-toe shoes when handling.